David D. Wheat, 55, passed away Friday morning, Nov. 9, 2012, at his home in Reelsville, after a courageous battle with cancer. By his side was his loving wife, Johnene Presley-Wheat, whom he married May 24, 2003, in Indianapolis.           

David was born Aug. 23, 1957, in Indianapolis to J.D. and Roxie (Melton) Wheat. He retired in 2005 from the State of Indiana after 25 years of service, working as a security guard at the Larue Carter State Hospital from 1987-2005 and as a correctional officer at the Putnamville Correction Facility from 2005-2012.

He is survived by his mother, Roxie Wheat of Indianapolis; and his four children, Patti (William) Ravellette of Plainfield, Cathy Beth (William) Vansouk of Danville, Danny (Amy) Wheat of Rockville and Rob Wheat of Clayton. David will be remembered by his siblings, Cindy Cauthron of Trafalgar and Mike and Steve Wheat, both of Indianapolis; and four grandchildren, Daniel, Austin, Katelyn and Gage.

He was preceded in death by his father; and one brother, Claude Wheat.

David enjoyed visiting auctions, antiquing and collecting John Wayne memorabilia. He enjoyed fishing, working in his vegetable garden and woodworking. David enjoyed spending time with his family, especially his grandchildren and his dog, "Rocky."

A graveside service will be conducted Monday, Nov. 12 at 1:30 p.m. at Nineveh Christian Church Cemetery, 1261 E. 775 S. in Nineveh. Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to Meredith-Clark Funeral Home Cremation & Personalization Center in Morgantown.

In lieu of flowers, the Wheat family request memorial donations to be sent in honor of David to the Department of Mental Health at the Larue Carter State Hospital, 2601 Cold Springs Road, Indianapolis, IN 46222.

Expressions of caring and kindness can be made to the Wheat family at www.meredith-clark.com.